Head mounted display device

ABSTRACT

A head mounted display (HMD) device including a display configured to display an image; a communication processor configured to communicate with a massage chair for performing a massage; and a controller configured to receive massage information from the massage chair about the massage, and display an image on the display corresponding to the massage based on the received massage information.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No.10-2016-0138499 filed in the republic of Korea on Oct. 24, 2016, theentire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to a head mounted display (HMD) devicewhich is capable of communicating with a massage chair to display amassage part or a massage status.

Discussion of the Related Art

Recently, fitness equipment (e.g., running machine) or massageapparatuses have been developed for maintaining or enhancing health andfitness in home or health clubs or relieving fatigue and stress and arewidely used in real life. In particular, since a demand for looseningknotted muscles or relieving fatigue and stress through massageincreases, interest in massage apparatuses is increasing. A massage isone of the medical therapies that help blood circulation and relievefatigue by sweeping, nipping, pressing, pulling, tapping, or moving witha hand or a special instrument. In addition, a massage apparatusperforms a massage by a mechanical device. A representative example ofthe massage apparatus is a massage chair that allows a user to sitcomfortably and receive a massage.

Massage chairs are becoming more and more diverse in function, and thus,input devices for controlling various functions of the massage chairsare installed in the massage chairs. This is disclosed in Korean PatentApplication Publication No. 10-2011-0124620.

Since receiving a massage using a massage chair generally takes a longtime, a head mounted display (HMD) device can be utilized as a devicecapable of relieving a user's boredom.

SUMMARY

A first object of the present disclosure is to provide a head mounteddisplay (HMD) device which displays an image in which a massage part ismassaged based on massage information, so as to provide a realisticexperience to a user who receives a massage.

A second object of the present disclosure is to display a user's healthcondition or a muscle's relaxed state which is changed according to amassage is progressed, so as to provide a massage progress status to auser who receives a massage.

According to an aspect for achieving the first object of the presentdisclosure, an HMD device can receive massage information from a massagechair and display an image in which a massage part is massaged, based onthe received massage information.

According to an aspect for achieving the second object of the presentdisclosure, an HMD device may display a body image showing a user'shealth condition based on user's health information and display a user'shealth condition changed as a massage is progressed. Additionally, theHMD device may display an image showing that a muscle is relaxed.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a user canrelieve boredom and experience a realistic massage by displaying animage in which a massage part is massaged.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, it is possibleto provide an environment that allows a user to easily confirm a use'shealth condition or a massage progress status by displaying a user'shealth condition or a degree of relax of muscles.

Further scope of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, itshould be understood that the detailed description and specificexamples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, aregiven by illustration only, since various changes and modificationswithin the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings,which are given by illustration only, and thus are not limitative of thepresent invention, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a head mounted display (HMD)related to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of the HMD related to the presentdisclosure, when viewed from one direction.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a massage chair according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a structure of a massage chairaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a situation in which a user wearing an HMDreceives a massage on a massage chair, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of an HMD deviceaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a view illustrating a method of receiving massage informationfrom a massage chair according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a method of displaying an imagecorresponding to massage information based on massage informationaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a method of synchronizing a real massageoperation with an image based on synchronization information about pressand release according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a method of displaying an imageindicating that a muscle is relaxed, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a method of displaying a changedbackground screen according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplaryembodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to thedrawings, the same or equivalent components may be provided with thesame reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated. Ingeneral, a suffix such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer toelements or components. Use of such a suffix herein is merely intendedto facilitate description of the specification, and the suffix itself isnot intended to give any special meaning or function. The accompanyingdrawings are used to help easily understand various technical featuresand it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein arenot limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the presentdisclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalentsand substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out inthe accompanying drawings.

A head mounted display (HMD) used herein may include, for example, awearable device (e.g., smart glass) and the like. However, except forthe configurations applicable only to the HMD the configurationsaccording to the embodiments described herein may also be applied tomobile terminals, such as smart phones, laptop computers, digitalbroadcasting terminals, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portablemultimedia players (PMPs), navigations, slate PCs, tablet PCs,ultrabooks, and smartwatch.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an HMD related to the presentdisclosure. The HMD 100 can include a communication unit 110, an inputunit 120, an output unit 150, a memory 170, a controller 180, and apower supply unit 190. The components shown in FIG. 1 are notnecessarily essential for implementing the HMD, and the HMD describedherein may include more or fewer components than those listed above.

More specifically, the communication unit 110 among the above componentsmay include at least one module enabling wireless communication betweenthe HMD 100 and a wireless communication system, between the HMD 100 andanother HMD 100, between the HMD 100 and a mobile or stationaryterminal, between the HMD 100 and a controller, between the HMD 100 anda camera installed in the outside and capable of wireless communication,between the HMD 100 and a massage chair, or between the HMD 100 and anexternal server. Additionally, the communication unit 110 may include atleast one module which connects the HMD 100 to at least one network.

The communication unit 110 may include at least one of a broadcastreceiving module 111, a mobile communication module 112, a wirelessInternet module 113, a short-range communication module 114, a locationinformation module 115, and an interface unit 116.

The input unit 120 includes a camera 121 for obtaining images or video,a microphone 122, which is one type of audio input device for inputtingan audio signal, and a user input unit 123 (for example, a touch key, apush key, a mechanical key, a soft key, and the like) for allowing auser to input information. Data (for example, audio, video, image, andthe like) is obtained by the input unit 120 and may be analyzed andprocessed by controller 180 according to device parameters, usercommands, and combinations thereof. Additionally, the input unit 120 mayinclude a sensing unit 124.

The output unit 150 is typically configured to output various types ofinformation, such as audio, video, tactile output, and the like. Theoutput unit 150 is shown having a display unit 151, an audio output unit152, a haptic module 153, and an optical output unit 154. The memory 170is typically implemented to store data to support various functions orfeatures of the HMD 100. For instance, the memory 170 may be configuredto store application programs executed in the HMD 100, data orinstructions for operations of the HMD 100, and the like. Some of theseapplication programs may be downloaded from an external server viawireless communication.

Other application programs may be installed within the HMD 100 at timeof manufacturing or shipping, which is typically the case for basicfunctions of HMD 100 (for example, receiving a call, placing a call,receiving a message, sending a message, and the like). It is common forapplication programs to be stored in the memory 170, installed in theHMD 100, and executed by the controller 180 to perform an operation (orfunction) for the HMD 100. The controller 180 typically functions tocontrol overall operation of the HMD 100, in addition to the operationsassociated with the application programs. The controller 180 can provideor process information or functions appropriate for a user by processingsignals, data, information and the like, which are input or output bythe various components depicted in FIG. 1, or activating applicationprograms stored in the memory 170.

As one example, the controller 180 controls some or all of thecomponents illustrated in FIG. 1 according to the execution of anapplication program that have been stored in the memory 170. The powersupply unit 190 can be configured to receive external power or provideinternal power in order to supply appropriate power required foroperating elements and components included in the HMD 100. The powersupply unit 190 may include a battery, and the battery may be configuredto be embedded in the HMD, or configured to be detachable from the HMD.

At least some of the components may cooperate with each other so as toimplement the operation, control, or control method of the HMD accordingto various embodiments described below. Additionally, the operation,control, or control method of the HMD may be implemented on the HMD bythe execution of at least one application program stored in the memory170.

Referring still to FIG. 1, various components depicted in this figurewill now be described in more detail. Regarding the wirelesscommunication unit 110, the broadcast receiving module 111 is typicallyconfigured to receive a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associatedinformation from an external broadcast managing entity via a broadcastchannel. The broadcast channel may include a satellite channel, aterrestrial channel, or both. In some embodiments, two or more broadcastreceiving modules 111 may be utilized to facilitate simultaneouslyreceiving of two or more broadcast channels, or to support switchingamong broadcast channels.

The broadcast managing entity may be a server which generates andtransmits a broadcast signal and/or broadcast associated information, ora server which receives a pre-generated broadcast signal and/orbroadcast associated information, and sends such items to the HMD. Thebroadcast signal may be implemented using any of a TV broadcast signal,a radio broadcast signal, a data broadcast signal, and combinationsthereof, among others. The broadcast signal in some cases may furtherinclude a data broadcast signal combined with a TV or radio broadcastsignal.

The broadcast signal may be encoded according to any of a variety oftechnical standards or broadcasting methods (for example, InternationalOrganization for Standardization (ISO), International ElectrotechnicalCommission (IEC), Digital Video Broadcast (DVB), Advanced TelevisionSystems Committee (ATSC), and the like) for transmission and receptionof digital broadcast signals. The broadcast receiving module 111 canreceive the digital broadcast signals using a method appropriate for thetransmission method utilized.

Examples of broadcast associated information may include informationassociated with a broadcast channel, a broadcast program, a broadcastevent, a broadcast service provider, or the like. The broadcastassociated information may also be provided via a mobile communicationnetwork, and in this instance, received by the mobile communicationmodule 112.

The broadcast associated information may be implemented in variousformats. For instance, broadcast associated information may include anElectronic Program Guide (EPG) of Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB),an Electronic Service Guide (ESG) of Digital Video Broadcast-Handheld(DVB-H), and the like. Broadcast signals and/or broadcast associatedinformation received via the broadcast receiving module 111 may bestored in a suitable device, such as a memory 170.

The mobile communication module 112 can transmit and/or receive wirelesssignals to and from one or more network entities. Typical examples of anetwork entity include a base station, an external HMD, a server, andthe like. Such network entities form part of a mobile communicationnetwork, which is constructed according to technical standards orcommunication methods for mobile communications (for example, GlobalSystem for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access(CDMA), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO (EnhancedVoice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), Wideband CDMA(WCDMA), High Speed Downlink Packet access (HSDPA), HSUPA (High SpeedUplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A (Long TermEvolution-Advanced), and the like). Examples of wireless signalstransmitted and/or received via the mobile communication module 112include audio call signals, video (telephony) call signals, or variousformats of data to support communication of text and multimediamessages.

The wireless Internet module 113 is configured to facilitate wirelessInternet access. This module may be internally or externally coupled tothe HMD 100. The wireless Internet module 113 can transmit and/orreceive wireless signals via communication networks according towireless Internet technologies.

Examples of such wireless Internet access include Wireless LAN (WLAN),Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Digital Living Network Alliance(DLNA), Wireless Broadband (WiBro), Worldwide Interoperability forMicrowave Access (WiMAX), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA),HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access), Long Term Evolution (LTE),LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), and the like. The wirelessInternet module 113 can transmit/receive data according to one or moreof such wireless Internet technologies, and other Internet technologiesas well.

In some embodiments, when the wireless Internet access is implementedaccording to, for example, WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE,LTE-A and the like, as part of a mobile communication network, thewireless Internet module 113 performs such wireless Internet access. Assuch, the wireless Internet module 113 may cooperate with, or functionas, the mobile communication module 112.

The short-range communication module 114 is configured to facilitateshort-range communications. Suitable technologies for implementing suchshort-range communications include BLUETOOTH™, Radio FrequencyIDentification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-WideBand(UWB), ZigBee, Near Field Communication (NFC), Wireless-Fidelity(Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, Wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus), andthe like. The short-range communication module 114 in general supportswireless communications between the HMD 100 and a wireless communicationsystem, communications between the HMD 100 and another HMD 100, orcommunications between the HMD and a network where another HMD 100 (oran external server) is located, via wireless area networks. One exampleof the wireless area networks is a wireless personal area networks.Additionally, the short-range communication module 114 can transmit datato the massage chair and receive data from the massage chair.

Herein, the HMD 100 may be a device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a smartwatch, a notebook computer, a controller, etc.) which iscapable of exchanging data with the HMD 100. The short-rangecommunication module 114 may detect (or recognize) a device capable ofcommunicating with the HMD 100 around the HMD 100. Furthermore, when thedetected device is a device authenticated to communicate with the HMD100 according to the present disclosure, the controller 180 can transmitat least a part of data processed in the HMD 100 to the device throughthe short-range communication module 114, and may at least a part ofdata processed in the device to the HMD 100.

Accordingly, a user of the HMD 100 can use the data processed in thedevice through the HMD 100. For example, when the device receives acall, the user can make a phone call via the HMD 100, or when the devicereceives a message, the user can confirm the received message via theHMD 100.

The location information module 115 is generally configured to detect,calculate, derive or otherwise identify a position of the HMD 100. As anexample, the location information module 115 includes a Global PositionSystem (GPS) module, a Wi-Fi module, or both. If desired, the locationinformation module 115 may alternatively or additionally function withany of the other modules of the wireless communication unit 110 toobtain data associated with the position of the HMD 100.

As one example, when the HMD 100 uses a GPS module, a position of theHMD 100 may be acquired using a signal sent from a GPS satellite. Asanother example, when the HMD 100 uses the Wi-Fi module, a position ofthe HMD 100 can be acquired based on information related to a wirelessaccess point (AP) which transmits or receives a wireless signal to orfrom the Wi-Fi module.

The interface unit 116 serves as an interface with various types ofexternal devices connected to the HMD 100. For example, the interfaceunit 116 may serve as an interface with a massage chair connected to theHMD 100. The interface unit 116 may include at least one of awired/wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired/wirelessdata port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equippedwith an identification module, an audio I/O port, a video I/O port, andan earphone port. The HMD 100 can perform appropriate control associatedwith a connected external device in response to the connection of theexternal device to the interface unit 116.

The interface unit 160 serves as an interface for external devices to beconnected with the HMD 100. For example, the interface unit 160 canreceive data transmitted from an external device, receive power totransfer to elements and components within the HMD 100, or transmitinternal data of the HMD 100 to such external device. The interface unit160 may include wired or wireless headset ports, external power supplyports, wired or wireless data ports, memory card ports, ports forconnecting a device having an identification module, audio input/output(I/O) ports, video I/O ports, earphone ports, or the like. Additionally,the interface unit 116 can transmit data to the massage chair or receivedata from the massage chair.

The input unit 120 may be configured to permit various types of input tothe HMD. Examples of such input include audio, image, video, data, anduser input. Image and video input is often obtained using one or morecameras 121. Such cameras 121 can process image frames of still picturesor video obtained by image sensors in a video or image capture mode. Theprocessed image frames can be displayed on the display unit 151 orstored in the memory 170. In some instances, the cameras 121 can bearranged in a matrix configuration to permit a plurality of imageshaving various angles or focal points to be input to the HMD 100. Asanother example, the cameras 121 can be located in a stereoscopicarrangement to acquire left and right images for implementing astereoscopic image.

The microphone 122 is generally implemented to permit audio input to theHMD 100. The audio input can be processed in various manners accordingto a function being executed in the HMD 100. If desired, the microphone122 may include assorted noise removing algorithms to remove unwantednoise generated in the course of receiving the external audio.

The user input unit 123 is a component that permits input by a user.Such user input may enable the controller 180 to control operation ofthe HMD 100. The user input unit 123 may include one or more of amechanical input element (for example, a key, a button located on afront and/or rear surface or a side surface of the HMD 100, a domeswitch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like), or a touch-sensitiveinput, among others. For example, a touch-type input unit may be atleast one of a touch pad and a touch panel.

The sensing unit 124 is typically implemented using one or more sensorsconfigured to sense internal information of the HMD 100, the surroundingenvironment of the HMD 100, user information, and the like. For example,in FIG. 1, the sensing unit 124 is shown having a proximity sensor andan illumination sensor.

If desired, the sensing unit 124 may alternatively or additionallyinclude other types of sensors or devices, such as a touch sensor, anacceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a G-sensor, a gyroscope sensor,a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a finger scansensor, a ultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor (for example, camera121), a microphone 122, a battery gauge, an environment sensor (forexample, a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radiation detectionsensor, a thermal sensor, and a gas sensor, among others), and achemical sensor (for example, an electronic nose, a health care sensor,a biometric sensor, and the like), to name a few. The HMD 100 may beconfigured to utilize information obtained from sensing unit 124, and inparticular, information obtained from one or more sensors of the sensingunit 124, and combinations thereof.

The sensing unit 124 is generally configured to sense one or more ofinternal information of the HMD, surrounding environment information ofthe HMD, user information, or the like. The controller 180 generallycooperates with the sensing unit 124 to control operation of the HMD 100or execute data processing, a function or an operation associated withan application program installed in the HMD based on the sensingprovided by the sensing unit 124. The sensing unit 124 may beimplemented using any of a variety of sensors, some of which will now bedescribed in more detail.

The proximity sensor may include a sensor to sense presence or absenceof an object approaching a surface, or an object located near a surface,by using an electromagnetic field, infrared rays, or the like without amechanical contact. The proximity sensor may be arranged at an innerregion of the HMD covered by the touch screen, or near the touch screen.

The proximity sensor, for example, may include any of a transmissivetype photoelectric sensor, a direct reflective type photoelectricsensor, a mirror reflective type photoelectric sensor, a high-frequencyoscillation proximity sensor, a capacitance type proximity sensor, amagnetic type proximity sensor, an infrared rays proximity sensor, andthe like. When the touch screen is implemented as a capacitance type,the proximity sensor can sense proximity of a pointer relative to thetouch screen by changes of an electromagnetic field, which is responsiveto an approach of an object with conductivity. In this instance, thetouch screen (touch sensor) may also be categorized as a proximitysensor.

The term “proximity touch” will often be referred to herein to denotethe scenario in which a pointer is positioned to be proximate to thetouch screen without contacting the touch screen. The term “contacttouch” will often be referred to herein to denote the scenario in whicha pointer makes physical contact with the touch screen. For the positioncorresponding to the proximity touch of the pointer relative to thetouch screen, such position will correspond to a position where thepointer is perpendicular to the touch screen. The proximity sensor maysense proximity touch, and proximity touch patterns (for example,distance, direction, speed, time, position, moving status, and thelike).

In general, the controller 180 processes data corresponding to proximitytouches and proximity touch patterns sensed by the proximity sensor, andcause output of visual information on the touch screen. In addition, thecontroller 180 can control the HMD 100 to execute different operationsor process different data according to whether a touch with respect to apoint on the touch screen is either a proximity touch or a contacttouch.

A touch sensor can sense a touch applied to the touch screen, such asdisplay unit 151, using any of a variety of touch methods. Examples ofsuch touch methods include a resistive type, a capacitive type, aninfrared type, and a magnetic field type, among others. As one example,the touch sensor may be configured to convert changes of pressureapplied to a specific part of the display unit 151, or convertcapacitance occurring at a specific part of the display unit 151, intoelectric input signals. The touch sensor may also be configured to sensenot only a touched position and a touched area, but also touch pressureand/or touch capacitance. A touch object is generally used to apply atouch input to the touch sensor. Examples of typical touch objectsinclude a finger, a touch pen, a stylus pen, a pointer, or the like.

When a touch input is sensed by a touch sensor, corresponding signalsmay be transmitted to a touch controller. The touch controller canprocess the received signals, and then transmit corresponding data tothe controller 180. Accordingly, the controller 180 can sense whichregion of the display unit 151 has been touched. Here, the touchcontroller may be a component separate from the controller 180, thecontroller 180, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the controller 180 can execute the same ordifferent controls according to a type of touch object that touches thetouch screen or a touch key provided in addition to the touch screen.Whether to execute the same or different control according to the objectwhich provides a touch input may be decided based on a current operatingstate of the HMD 100 or a currently executed application program, forexample.

In addition, the touch sensor and the proximity sensor may beimplemented independently, or in combination, to sense various types oftouches. Such touches include a short (or tap) touch, a long touch, amulti touch, a drag touch, a flick touch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-outtouch, a swipe touch, a hovering touch, and the like. The touch sensorand the proximity sensor may be implemented individually, or incombination, to sense various types of touches. Such touches include ashort (or tap) touch, a long touch, a multi-touch, a drag touch, a flicktouch, a pinch-in touch, a pinch-out touch, a swipe touch, a hoveringtouch, and the like.

If desired, an ultrasonic sensor may be implemented to recognizeposition information relating to a touch object using ultrasonic waves.The controller 180, for example, may calculate a position of a wavegeneration source based on information sensed by an illumination sensorand a plurality of ultrasonic sensors. Since light is much faster thanultrasonic waves, the time for which the light reaches the opticalsensor is much shorter than the time for which the ultrasonic wavereaches the ultrasonic sensor. The position of the wave generationsource may be calculated using this fact. For instance, the position ofthe wave generation source may be calculated using the time differencefrom the time that the ultrasonic wave reaches the sensor based on thelight as a reference signal.

The camera 121 typically includes at least one a camera sensor (CCD,CMOS etc.), a photo sensor (or image sensors), and a laser sensor.Implementing the camera 121 with a laser sensor may allow detection of atouch of a physical object with respect to a 3D stereoscopic image. Thephoto sensor may be laminated on, or overlapped with, the displaydevice. The photo sensor may be configured to scan movement of thephysical object in proximity to the touch screen. In more detail, thephoto sensor may include photo diodes and transistors at rows andcolumns to scan content received at the photo sensor using an electricalsignal which changes according to the quantity of applied light. Namely,the photo sensor may calculate the coordinates of the physical objectaccording to variation of light to thus obtain position information ofthe physical object.

The display unit 151 is generally configured to output informationprocessed in the HMD 100. For example, the display unit 151 may displayexecution screen information of an application program executing at theHMD 100 or user interface (UI) and graphic user interface (GUI)information in response to the execution screen information.

In some embodiments, the display unit 151 may be implemented as astereoscopic display unit for displaying stereoscopic images. A typicalstereoscopic display unit may employ a stereoscopic display scheme suchas a stereoscopic scheme (a glass scheme), an auto-stereoscopic scheme(glassless scheme), a projection scheme (holographic scheme), or thelike.

In general, a 3D stereoscopic image may include a left image (e.g., aleft eye image) and a right image (e.g., a right eye image). Accordingto how left and right images are combined into a 3D stereoscopic image,a 3D stereoscopic imaging method can be divided into a top-down methodin which left and right images are located up and down in a frame, anL-to-R (left-to-right or side by side) method in which left and rightimages are located left and right in a frame, a checker board method inwhich fragments of left and right images are located in a tile form, aninterlaced method in which left and right images are alternately locatedby columns or rows, and a time sequential (or frame by frame) method inwhich left and right images are alternately displayed on a time basis.

Also, as for a 3D thumbnail image, a left image thumbnail and a rightimage thumbnail can be generated from a left image and a right image ofan original image frame, respectively, and then combined to generate asingle 3D thumbnail image. In general, the term “thumbnail” may be usedto refer to a reduced image or a reduced still image. A generated leftimage thumbnail and right image thumbnail may be displayed with ahorizontal distance difference there between by a depth corresponding tothe disparity between the left image and the right image on the screen,thereby providing a stereoscopic space sense.

A left image and a right image required for implementing a 3Dstereoscopic image may be displayed on the stereoscopic display unitusing a stereoscopic processing unit. The stereoscopic processing unitcan receive the 3D image and extract the left image and the right image,or can receive the 2D image and change it into a left image and a rightimage.

The audio output unit 152 is generally configured to output audio data.Such audio data may be obtained from any of a number of differentsources, such that the audio data may be received from the wirelesscommunication unit 110 or may have been stored in the memory 170. Theaudio data may be output during modes such as a signal reception mode, acall mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcastreception mode, and the like. The audio output unit 152 can provideaudible output related to a particular function (e.g., a call signalreception sound, a message reception sound, etc.) performed by the HMD100. The audio output unit 152 may also be implemented as a receiver, aspeaker, a buzzer, or the like.

A haptic module 153 can be configured to generate various tactileeffects that a user feels, perceive, or otherwise experience. A typicalexample of a tactile effect generated by the haptic module 153 isvibration. The strength, pattern and the like of the vibration generatedby the haptic module 153 can be controlled by user selection or settingby the controller. For example, the haptic module 153 may outputdifferent vibrations in a combining manner or a sequential manner.

Besides vibration, the haptic module 153 can generate various othertactile effects, including an effect by stimulation such as a pinarrangement vertically moving to contact skin, a spray force or suctionforce of air through a jet orifice or a suction opening, a touch to theskin, a contact of an electrode, electrostatic force, an effect byreproducing the sense of cold and warmth using an element that canabsorb or generate heat, and the like.

The haptic module 153 can also be implemented to allow the user to feela tactile effect through a muscle sensation such as the user's fingersor arm, as well as transferring the tactile effect through directcontact. Two or more haptic modules 153 may be provided according to theparticular configuration of the HMD 100.

An optical output unit 154 can output a signal for indicating an eventgeneration using light of a light source. Examples of events generatedin the HMD 100 may include message reception, call signal reception, amissed call, an alarm, a schedule notice, an email reception,information reception through an application, and the like. That is, theoptical output unit 154 may serve to notify that the HMD 100 isperforming a specific operation (function) by the user.

The signal output by the optical output unit 154 is implemented when theHMD emits light of a single color or a plurality of colors to the frontor rear surface. The signal output may be terminated when the HMDdetects the user's event confirmation or when the operation beingperformed on the HMD is finished.

The identification module may be a chip that stores various informationfor authenticating authority of using the HMD 100 and may include a useridentity module (UIM), a subscriber identity module (SIM), a universalsubscriber identity module (USIM), and the like. In addition, the devicehaving the identification module (also referred to herein as an“identifying device”) may take the form of a smart card. Accordingly,the identifying device can be connected with the HMD 100 via theinterface unit 160.

When the HMD 100 is connected with an external cradle, the interfaceunit 160 can serve as a passage to allow power from the cradle to besupplied to the HMD 100 or may serve as a passage to allow variouscommand signals input by the user from the cradle to be transferred tothe HMD there through. Various command signals or power input from thecradle may operate as signals for recognizing that the HMD is properlymounted on the cradle.

The memory 170 can store programs to support operations of thecontroller 180 and store input/output data (for example, phonebook,messages, still images, videos, etc.). The memory 170 may store dataassociated with various patterns of vibrations and audio which areoutput in response to touch inputs on the touch screen.

The memory 170 may include one or more types of storage mediumsincluding a Flash memory, a hard disk, a solid state disk, a silicondisk, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or DXmemory, etc.), a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random AccessMemory (SRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Electrically ErasableProgrammable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), a Programmable Read-Only memory(PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, and thelike. The HMD 100 may also be operated in relation to a network storagedevice that performs the storage function of the memory 170 over anetwork, such as the Internet.

The controller 180 can typically control the general operations of theHMD 100. For example, the controller 180 can set or release a lock statefor restricting a user from inputting a control command with respect toapplications when a status of the HMD meets a preset condition.

The controller 180 can also perform the controlling and processingassociated with voice calls, data communications, video calls, and thelike, or perform pattern recognition processing to recognize ahandwriting input or a picture drawing input performed on the touchscreen as characters or images, respectively. In addition, thecontroller 180 can control one or a combination of those components inorder to implement various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

The power supply unit 190 receives external power or provides internalpower and supply the appropriate power required for operating respectiveelements and components included in the HMD 100. The power supply unit190 may include a battery, which is typically rechargeable or bedetachably coupled to the HMD for charging.

The power supply unit 190 may include a connection port. The connectionport may be configured as one example of the interface unit 160 to whichan external charger for supplying power to recharge the battery iselectrically connected. As another example, the power supply unit 190may be configured to recharge the battery in a wireless manner withoutuse of the connection port. In this example, the power supply unit 190can receive power, transferred from an external wireless powertransmitter, using at least one of an inductive coupling method which isbased on magnetic induction or a magnetic resonance coupling methodwhich is based on electromagnetic resonance. Also, in the presentdisclosure, the term “memory 170” may also be referred to as the“storage unit 170”.

The HMD device 100 can display an image. Specifically, the HMD device100 can receive an image provided from an external device and displaythe received image. The image may be a virtual reality (VR) image.

The sensing unit 124 can acquire data about the movement of the HMDdevice 100. Specifically, the sensing unit 124 can acquire data about atleast one of a moving direction, a movement amount, a rotatingdirection, and a rotation amount of the HMD device 100.

In order for the above-described operation, the sensing unit 124 mayinclude a plurality of sensors. For example, the sensing unit 124 mayinclude at least one of a gravity sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a motionsensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, an infrared sensor, aninclination sensor, a brightness sensor, an altitude sensor, anolfactory sensor, a temperature sensor, a depth sensor, a pressuresensor, a bending sensor, a bending sensor, an audio sensor, a videosensor, a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, and a touch sensor.

In addition, the communication unit 110 may be connected to a network ina wire or wireless manner to transmit and receive digital data such ascontent. The controller 180 can also control the display unit 151 todisplay an image. Specifically, when an image is received from anexternal device or when an image is stored in the storage unit 170, thecontroller 180 can control the display unit 151 to display the image.

Additionally, the controller 180 can acquire information about at leastone of a moving direction, a movement amount, a rotating direction, anda rotation amount of the HMD device 100, based on the data about themovement of the HMD device 100 sensed by the sensing unit 124. Further,control information of the HMD device 100, which is acquired by the HMDdevice 100, can be transmitted to an external device. In this instance,the external device can provide an image corresponding to the controlinformation of the HMD device 100 to the HMD device 100.

For example, when the control information of the HMD device 100 isinformation about the direction of the HMD device 100, the externaldevice can provide an image corresponding to the direction of the HMDdevice 100 to the HMD device 100. In addition, various embodiments maybe implemented within a recording medium readable by a computer or asimilar device by using software, hardware, or combination thereof.

Next, FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of the HMD related to the presentdisclosure, when viewed from one direction. Referring to FIG. 2, the HMD100 is formed to be wearable on a head (or a face) of a human body.Thus, the HMD 100 includes a frame part (case, housing, cover, etc.).The frame part may be made of a flexible material so as to facilitatewearing. FIG. 2 shows an example in which the frame part includes afirst frame 101 and a second frame 102, which are made of differentmaterials.

As an example, the first frame 101 provides a space in which at leastone of the components described with reference to FIG. 1 can bedisposed, and the second frame 102 can support (or fix) the first frame101 so that the first frame 101 can be mounted on the head of the humanbody. The frame part may also be referred to as a main body (or HMD mainbody) or a body (or HMD body). The HMD main body (or HMD body) may beunderstood as a concept of referring to the HMD 100 as at least oneaggregate.

The frame part is supported to the head and provides a space in whichvarious parts are mounted. As shown in FIG. 2, a camera 121, electronicparts such as the output unit, the user input unit 123, thelight-emitting units 200 a, 200 b, and 200 c, the controller, and thesensing unit may be mounted on the first frame 101. The display unit 151can cover at least one of the left eye and the right eye of the user (orto face at least one of the left eye and the right eye of the user) andbe detachably formed.

Electronic parts such as the audio output unit 152 and thelight-emitting units may be mounted on the second frame 102. However,the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The components describedwith reference to FIG. 1 and the components required for the HMD may bevariously disposed on the first frame 101 and the second frame 102 by auser's selection. The controller 180 of FIG. 1 can control variouselectronic parts provided in the HMD 100.

The display unit 151 is mounted on the frame part and serves to outputscreen information (e.g., image, video, etc.) in front of the user'seyes. The display unit 151 may be disposed corresponding to at least oneof the left eye and the right eye so that the screen information isdisplayed in front of the user's eye when the user wears the HMD 100.FIG. 2 shows an example in which the display unit 151 is disposed tocover both the left eye and the right eye of the user so that the imageis displayed toward both the left eye and the right eye of the user.

Additionally, the display unit 151 can use a prism to project an imageto the user's eyes. Additionally, the prism may be formed to betransmissive so that the user views the projected image and a generalfield of vision of the front (a range the user views through eyes)together.

As such, the image output through the display unit 151 can be viewedwhile overlapping with the general field of vision. The HMD 100 can usesuch characteristics of the display to provide augmented reality (AR) inwhich a virtual image is superimposed on a real image or a backgroundand displayed as a single image.

Further, the camera 121 is disposed adjacent to at least one of the lefteye and the right eye and configured to capture a front image. Since thecamera 121 is disposed adjacent to the eyes to face the front, thecamera 121 can acquire a scene the user views as an image. An example inwhich one camera 121 is provided is shown in FIG. 2, but the presentdisclosure is not necessarily limited thereto. A plurality of cameras121 may be provided to acquire a three-dimensional (3D) image.

The HMD 100 may include the user input unit 123 which is manipulated soas to receive a control command. The user input unit 123 may be employedin any manner as long as the user operates in a tactile manner such astouch or push. An example in which the user input unit 123 using a pushand touch input method is provided in the frame part is shown in FIG. 2.

Additionally, the HMD 100 may include a microphone which receives asound and converts the sound into electrical audio data, and an audiooutput unit 152 which outputs the sound. The audio output unit 152 maybe configured to transmit the sound in a general audio output method ora bond conduction method. When the audio output unit 152 is implementedin the bone conduction method, the audio output unit 152 is brought intoclose contact with the head when the user wears the HMD 100 and vibratesthe skull to transmit the sound.

When the frame part including the first frame 101 and the second frame102 is regarded as one HMD main body (hereinafter, referred to as a mainbody), the main body of the HMD related to the present disclosure may beformed in various shapes. Specifically, the main body may include aplurality of surfaces 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c forming preset angles. Theplurality of surfaces can be surfaces disposed at the outside of themain body. From this viewpoint, the plurality of surfaces may be thesurfaces (outer surface or the like) of the HMD 100. The plurality ofsurfaces 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c can be flat or curved.

Further, the display unit 151 of the HMD 100 related to the presentdisclosure can be disposed inside the main body. Specifically, thedisplay unit 151 can be disposed inside the HMD 100, and be disposed ata position facing the user's eyes when the user wears the HMD 100 on theuser's head.

The main body in which the plurality of surfaces 103 a, 103 b, and 103 care formed to be perpendicular to one another is shown in FIG. 2.Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the HMD in which theplurality of surfaces are formed to be perpendicular to one another willbe described as an example, but the contents described in thisconnection can be applied to all types of HMDs including a plurality ofsurfaces forming preset angles in the same or similar manner.

Additionally, the second frame 102 of the HMD 100 may include aplurality of surfaces. In the present disclosure, any one surface 103 fof the surfaces included in the second frame 102 is included in theplurality of surfaces of the HMD main body. The surface 103 f can bedisposed at the back of the head.

For example, referring to FIG. 2, the HMD according to the presentdisclosure may include a plurality of surfaces. The plurality ofsurfaces may include a front surface 103 a, a left surface 103 b, alower surface 103 c, a right surface 103 d, an upper surface 103 e, anda rear surface 103 f.

The HMD 100 related to the present disclosure can also include aplurality of light-emitting units each formed on the plurality ofsurfaces of the main body and configured to emit light to the outside ofthe main body. Specifically, the plurality of light-emitting units maybe respectively formed on the plurality of surfaces of the main body andemit light to the outside of the main body. Here, that the plurality oflight-emitting units are respectively formed on the plurality ofsurfaces of the main body does not mean that a plurality oflight-emitting units are formed for each of the plurality of surfaces,but means that one light-emitting unit is formed for each of theplurality of surfaces.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first light-emitting unit 200 a maybe provided on the front surface 103 a, the second light-emitting unit200 b may be provided on the left surface 103 b, and the thirdlight-emitting unit 200 c may be provided on the lower surface 103 c. Inaddition, the light-emitting units may be respectively provided on theright surface 103 d, the upper surface 103 e, and the rear surface 103f.

The plurality of light-emitting units may be used to determine (orestimate, track, detect, extract, decide, identify, recognize, etc.) theposture of the HMD 100. For example, in the present disclosure, thecontroller may be included for determine the posture of the HMD 100, andthe controller 180 can determine the posture of the HMD 100 by using theplurality of light-emitting units respectively formed on the pluralityof surfaces of the HMD 100.

The posture of the HMD 100 may be understood as a concept including whenthe HMD 100 is placed (when the HMD 100 is worn on the head of theuser), a degree of inclination of the HMD 100, a direction the HMD 100faces, a position of the HMD 100, a rotation of the HMD 100, a movementof the HMD 100, and the like. Additionally, in the present disclosure,that the posture of the HMD 100 is determined means that the posture andmovement of the user wearing the HMD 100 is determined.

The plurality of light-emitting unit may include a plurality oflight-emitting devices. Each light-emitting unit may be formed so thatthe plurality of light-emitting devices have different patterns(arrangements) so as to distinguish the plurality of surfaces from oneanother.

For example, the pattern (or arrangement) in which the plurality oflight-emitting devices included in the light-emitting unit 200 aprovided on the front surface 103 a are arranged may be different fromthe pattern in which the plurality of light-emitting devices included inthe light-emitting unit provided on the surface different from the frontsurface (for example, the light-emitting unit 200 b provided on the leftsurface 103 b).

The controller may identify the light-emitting unit based on theplurality of light-emitting devices arranged on the plurality ofsurfaces to have different patterns, and can determine the posture ofthe HMD 100 by using the identified light-emitting unit. Also, the term“HMD 100” may also be referred to as the “HMD device 100”.

Next, FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a massage chair 200according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The massage chair200 may include at least one of a controller 210, a driving unit 220, asensing unit 230, and a communication unit 240.

Further, the controller 210 performs an overall control of eachcomponent of the massage chair 200. Specifically, the controller 210 cancontrol the operations of the driving unit 220, the sensing unit 230,and the communication unit 240.

The driving unit 220 can generate a force for performing massage underthe control of the controller 210. Further, the driving unit 220 cantransmit the generated force to at least one of a head massage unit 310supporting the user's head, a back massage unit 320 supporting theuser's back, an arm massage unit 330 supporting the user's arm, a hipmassage unit 340 supporting the user's hip, and a leg massage unit 350supporting the user's leg (FIG. 4).

In addition, the driving unit 220 can generate a force for rotating atleast one of the head massage unit 310 supporting the user's head, theback massage unit 320 supporting the user's back, the arm massage unit330 supporting the user's arm, the hip massage unit 340 supporting theuser's hip, and the leg massage unit 350 supporting the user's leg andtransmit the generated force thereto.

Thus, the driving unit 220 may include at least one motor configured togenerate a rotating force, and a power transmission unit configured totransmit the generated rotating force.

Each of the head massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320, the armmassage unit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massage unit 350may include an airbag, and the driving unit 220 can perform a massagewith various strengths by adjusting air pressure of the airbag of eachof the massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320, the arm massage unit330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massage unit 350.

The sensing unit 230 can acquire data for acquiring information about atleast one of a body shape, a posture, and a position of the user.Specifically, the sensing unit 230 may include at least one sensordisposed at a portion that the user contacts. The at least one sensormay include at least one of an electrostatic sensor, a pressure sensor,and a piezoelectric sensor. When the user contacts the massage chair,the at least one sensor can acquire data about at least one of a contactsurface and a contact strength.

In this instance, the controller 210 can acquire information about atleast one of the body shape, the posture, and the position of the user,based on the data acquired by the sensing unit 230. Further, the sensorincluded in the sensing unit 230 is not limited to the electrostaticsensor, the pressure sensor, and the piezoelectric sensor describedabove, and may be any sensors capable of collecting data for acquiringthe information about at least one of the body shape, the posture, andthe position of the user. Examples of such sensors may include anultrasonic sensor, an optical sensor, and the like.

Also, the sensing unit 230 can acquire data for acquiring informationabout a slope of the massage chair. The information about the slope ofthe massage chair may include at least one of slope information of thehead massage unit, slope information of the back massage unit, slopeinformation of the hip massage unit, slope information of the legmassage unit, slope information of the arm massage unit, and slopeinformation of the entire massage chair.

Specifically, the massage chair may include at least one of the headmassage unit, the back massage unit, the hip massage unit, the armmassage unit, and the leg massage unit. The sensing unit 230 may includeat least one sensor capable of sensing the rotation of at least one ofthe head massage unit, the back massage unit, the hip massage unit, thearm massage unit, and the leg massage unit. Additionally, the entiremassage chair may be rotated, and the sensing unit 230 may measure therotation or the slope of the massage chair. The at least one sensorincluded in the sensing unit 230 may be at least one of an inertialsensor, a magnetic sensor, a gravity sensor, a gyroscope sensor, and anacceleration sensor.

In addition, the controller 210 can acquire information about the slopeof the massage chair, based on the data acquired by the sensing unit230. Also, the communication unit 240 can communicate with the HMD 100.Specifically, the communication unit 240 may be connected to the HMD 100in a wired or wireless manner to transmit data to the HMD 100 or receivedata from the HMD 100.

Next, FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the structure of themassage chair 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.The massage chair 200 may include at least one of the head massage unit310 supporting the user's head, the back massage unit 320 supporting theuser's back, the arm massage unit 330 supporting the user's arm, the hipmassage unit 340 supporting the user's hip, and the leg massage unit 350supporting the user's leg.

At least one of the head massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320,the arm massage unit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massageunit 350 can be vertically rotated by the force transmitted from thedriving unit 220. Each of the head massage unit 310, the back massageunit 320, the arm massage unit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and theleg massage unit 350 may include at least one roller or at least onemassage rod and can perform massage through a preset operation by theforce transmitted from the driving unit 220.

Each of the head massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320, the armmassage unit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massage unit 350may include an airbag. Massage of various strengths can be provided tothe user by adjusting the air pressure of the airbag included in each ofthe head massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320, the arm massageunit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massage unit 350.

Further, the massage chair 200 may include a support which constitutes aframework inside the massage chair 200. The entire massage chair 200 maybe horizontally or vertically rotated by the force transmitted from thedriving unit 220. Also, the massage chair 200 may include a userinterface unit 370 having a display unit 373 configured to displayinformation under the control of the controller 210, and an input unit376 configured to receive an input from the user and transmit the inputto the controller 210.

Each of the head massage unit 310, the back massage unit 320, the armmassage unit 330, the hip massage unit 340, and the leg massage unit 350may include at least one lower massager. For example, the head massageunit 310 may include at least one of a head massager capable ofmassaging the user's head and a neck massager capable of massaging theuser's neck. As another example, the back massage unit 320 may includeat least one of a shoulder massager capable of massaging the user'sshoulder, a back massager capable of massaging the user's back, and awaist massager capable of massaging the user's waist. As anotherexample, the leg massage unit 350 may include at least one of a thighmassager capable of massaging the user's thigh, a calf massager capableof massaging the user's calf, and a foot massager capable of massagingthe user's foot.

The structure and the operating method of the massage chair 200 havebeen described above, but the present disclosure is not limited to theabove-described massage chair 200. Specifically, the structure and theoperating method of the massage chair are disclosed in variousdocuments, and the massage chair 200 according to the embodiment of thepresent disclosure may be applied to various types of known massagechairs.

Next, FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a situation in which the userwearing the HMD receives a massage on the massage chair, according tothe embodiment of the present disclosure. Also, the communication unit110 of the HMD 100 can be connected to the communication unit 240 of themassage chair 200 to transmit and receive data.

Specifically, the controller 180 of the HMD 100 can transmit the controlcommand to the massage chair 200 through the communication unit 110. Thecontrol command may include at least one of a massage mode controlcommand, a massage strength control command, a massage part controlcommand, a massage speed control command, and a massage pattern controlcommand.

When the control command is received from the HMD 100, the controller210 of the massage chair 200 can perform the operation corresponding tothe control command. Specifically, the controller 210 of the massagechair 200 may adjust at least one of a massage mode, a massage strength,and a massage speed, based on the received control command.

Further, the controller 210 of the massage chair 200 can transmitmassage information to the HMD 100 through the communication unit 240.The massage information may include at least one of information aboutthe slope of the massage chair 200, information about the massage part,information about the massage mode, and information about the massagepattern.

When the massage information is received from the massage chair 200, thecontroller 180 of the HMD 100 can control the operation of the HMD 100based on the received massage information or can transmit the controlcommand to the massage chair 200.

Next, FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of the HMDdevice according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown,the operating method of the HMD device includes receiving massageinformation from the massage chair (S610), and displaying an imagecorresponding to the massage information based on the massageinformation (S630).

FIG. 7 is a view illustrating the method of receiving the massageinformation from the massage chair according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. That is, the controller 180 of the HMD device canreceive massage information from the massage chair 200, and the massageinformation may include information about the massage part of the userreceiving the massage.

In more detail, the body of the user includes a plurality of massageparts including at least one of a user's head, neck, left shoulder,right shoulder, back, waist, hip, left arm, right arm, left thigh, rightthigh, left calf, and right calf. However, the present disclosure is notlimited thereto, and massage parts defined by integrating the pluralityof massage parts may exist. For example, the plurality of massage partsmay include at least one of a user's head, neck, shoulder, waist, hip,arm, and leg.

In addition, the controller 210 of the massage chair 200 can transmitinformation about the massage part being massaged to the HMD device 100.Specifically, when a first massage part 710 among the plurality ofmassage parts is being massaged, the controller 210 of the massage chair200 can transmit, to the HMD device 100, information indicating that thefirst massage part 710 is being massaged. For example, when the leftcalf is being massaged, the controller 210 of the massage chair 200 cantransmit, to the HMD device 100, information indicating that the leftcalf is being massaged.

In addition, the massage information may include information about themassage mode. In more detail, the massage mode may be at least one modecorresponding to at least one style. For example, when a first massagemode is a mode that performs a Thailand-style massage, a second massagemode may be a mode that performs a Chinese-style massage.

Next, FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a method of displaying an imagebased on the received massage information according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. In addition, the controller 180 can display animage based on received massage information.

Specifically, the controller 180 can display an image in which themassage part is massaged, based on the received information about themassage part. For example, when the information indicating that the leftcalf is being currently massaged is received from the massage chair 200,the controller 180 can display an image 810 in which the left calf ismassaged, as shown in FIG. 8.

In addition, the controller 180 can display an image in which themassage is performed in the massage mode of the massage chair 200, basedon the information about the massage mode of the massage chair 200.Specifically, when the massage mode of the massage chair 200 is a firstmassage mode, the controller 180 can display an image showingcharacteristics of the first massage mode. When the massage mode of themassage chair 200 is a second massage mode, the controller 180 candisplay an image showing characteristics of the second massage mode.

For example, when the first massage mode is a mode that performs aThailand-style massage characterized by loosening muscles by pressingknotted muscles with fingers, the controller 180 can display an image inwhich the body is pressed with fingers. Additionally, when the secondmassage mode is a mode that performs a Chinese-style massagecharacterized by softly rubbing the skin, the controller 180 can displayan image in which the skin is softly rubbed.

As another example, when the first massage mode is a pressing mode, thecontroller 180 can display an image in which the body is pressed.Additionally, when the second massage mode is a beating or hard pressingmode, the controller 180 can display an image in which the body isbeaten or pressed hard.

Also, the controller 180 can receive a user's health information fromthe massage chair 200. Specifically, the sensing unit 230 of the massagechair 200 can acquire data associated with the user's health. Forexample, the sensing unit 230 of the massage chair 200 may include atleast one sensor capable of acquiring data associated with the user'shealth, such as muscle stiffness, blood pressure, pulse, bodytemperature, and body fat.

In addition, the controller 210 of the massage chair 200 can acquire theuser's health information based on the data acquired by the sensing unit230. The user's health information may include at least one of musclestiffness, blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, and body fat. Thecontroller 210 of the massage chair 200 can also transmit the healthinformation to the HMD device 100.

Further, the controller 180 can display an image of recommending themassage mode corresponding to the user's health, based on the healthinformation. Additionally, when an input of selecting the recommendedmassage mode is received, the controller 180 can transmit a command foroperating as the recommended massage mode to the massage chair 200.

Also, the controller 180 can display a body image and displayinformation indicating a health degree of the user together the bodyimage, based on the user's health information. For example, thecontroller 180 can display a body image including a plurality of musclesand display information indicating stiffness of each muscle together thebody image.

When the health degree is changed as the massage progresses, thecontroller 180 can display information indicating the changed healthdegree. For example, when a plurality of muscles are relaxed as themassage is progressed, the stiffness of each muscle can be lowered. Inthis instance, the controller 180 can display information indicating thechanged stiffness of each muscle together the body image.

In addition, the controller 180 can display an image in which the firstmassage part having a low health degree among the plurality of massageparts is massaged. For example, when the left calf is most stiffened andthus has the greatest stiffness, the controller 180 can display an imagein which the left calf having the greatest stiffness among the pluralityof massage parts is massaged.

Further, the controller 180 can display information indicating thehealth degree of the first massage part together with the image in whichthe first massage part is massaged. For example, the controller 180 candisplay an image showing the stiffness of the left calf together withthe image in which the first massage part is massaged.

When the health degree of the first massage part is changed as themassage progresses, the controller 180 can display informationindicating the changed health degree of the first massage part. Forexample, when the muscle of the left calf is relaxed as the massage isprogressed, the stiffness of the left calf may be lowered. In thisinstance, the controller 180 can display information indicating thechanged stiffness of the left calf together the image in which the leftcalf is massaged.

An example of displaying the image corresponding to the massage mode ofthe massage chair, the massage part, or the user's health informationhas been described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.The massage mode of the massage chair, the massage part, or the user'shealth information may be combined. For example, the controller 180 candisplay an image in which a particular massage part is massaged in aparticular massage mode, based on the information about the massage modeand the massage part. That is, when the left calf is massaged in theThailand-style massage mode and characteristics of the Thailand-stylemassage mode are to loosen muscles by pressing muscles with fingers, thecontroller 180 can display an image in which the left calf is pressedwith fingers.

Next, FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a method of synchronizing a realmassage operation with an image based on synchronization informationabout pressure and release according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The massage chair 200 can perform massage on a particularmassage part by repeating a press and release.

Further, the controller 210 of the massage chair 200 can transmitsynchronization information about the press and release to the HMDdevice. The synchronization information may be a synchronization signalindicating at least one of the time when the press is applied to theparticular massage part in the massage chair 200 and the time when thepress of the particular massage part is released in the massage chair200.

In addition controller 180 of the HMD device can receive massageinformation from the massage chair 200. The massage information may besynchronization information about the press and the release of theparticular massage part. Based on the synchronization information aboutthe press and the release, the controller 180 can display a first imagewhen the massage chair presses at least one massage part, and display asecond image when the press of at least one massage part is released.

Specifically, based on the information about the massage part beingmassaged and the synchronization information about the press and therelease, the controller 180 can display an image in which the particularmassage part is pressed, when the massage chair 200 presses theparticular massage part, and display an image in which the press of theparticular massage part is released, when the massage chair releases thepress of the particular massage part. For example, when the massagechair 200 presses the left calf, the controller 180 can display an imagein which the hand of the massager presses the left calf, and when themassage chair 200 releases the press of the left calf, the controller210 may display an image in which the hand of the massager does notpress the left calf.

Next, FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a method of displaying an imageindicating that a muscle is relaxed, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. As shown, the controller 180 can display a bodyimage 1010 showing that a plurality of muscles are relaxed.

Specifically, the body image 1010 may include a plurality of muscles inthe body. Further, the controller 180 can display each muscle in a colorcorresponding to a degree of relax of each muscle. For example, a musclecan be displayed in a red color when the muscle is not relaxed at all, amuscle can be displayed in a yellow color when the muscle is beingrelaxed, and a muscle can be displayed in a blue color when the muscleis completely relaxed. The controller 180 can display a muscle aroundthe neck in a red color, display a muscle around the left arm in ayellow color, and display a muscle around the hip in a blue color.

In addition, the controller 180 can display information about a musclehaving a fastest massage progress status among the plurality of muscles.For example, when the relax status of the muscle around the hip amongthe plurality of muscles is fastest, the controller 180 can display animage 1020 showing the muscle around the hip.

Additionally, the controller 180 can display a muscle having a fastestmassage progress status in a color corresponding to a degree of relax ofthe muscle. For example, the controller 180 can display the musclearound the hip in a blue color.

Next, FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a method of displaying a changedbackground screen according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The controller 180 can display a background screen 1120 together with animage 1110 corresponding to massage information. For example, thecontroller 180 can display a background screen showing a sea togetherwith the image 1110 corresponding to the massage information. As anotherexample, the controller 180 can display a background screen showing adesert or a background screen showing a red clay room together with theimage 1110 corresponding to the massage information.

In this instance, the controller 180 can change the background screen1120 and display the changed background screen 1120, based on a userinput for changing the background screen. The controller 180 can displaya background screen corresponding to a massage mode together with animage corresponding to massage information. For example, when themassage mode of the massage chair 200 is a mode that performs aThailand-style massage, the controller 180 can display a backgroundscreen showing the Thailand together with the image corresponding to themassage information.

An image display system of the HMD device interworking with the massagechair will be described below. All the embodiments described above canbe applied to the image display system of the HMD device interworkingwith the massage chair. The massage chair 200 can acquire massageinformation including at least one of information about the massagepart, information about the massage mode, synchronization informationabout the press and the release, and user's health information, andtransmit the acquired massage information to the HMD device. The HMDdevice 100 can receive the massage information and display an imagecorresponding to the massage information based on the received massageinformation.

The present invention mentioned in the foregoing description may beimplemented using a machine-readable medium having instructions storedthereon for execution by a processor to perform various methodspresented herein. Examples of possible machine-readable mediums includeHDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Disk), SDD (Silicon Disk Drive),ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an optical datastorage device, the other types of storage mediums presented herein, andcombinations thereof. If desired, the machine-readable medium may berealized in the form of a carrier wave (for example, a transmission overthe Internet). The processor may include the controller 180 of themobile terminal.

The foregoing embodiments are merely exemplary and are not to beconsidered as limiting the present disclosure. This description isintended to be illustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims.Many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent tothose skilled in the art. The features, structures, methods, and othercharacteristics of the exemplary embodiments described herein may becombined in various ways to obtain additional and/or alternativeexemplary embodiments.

As the present features may be embodied in several forms withoutdeparting from the characteristics thereof, it should also be understoodthat the above-described embodiments are not limited by any of thedetails of the foregoing description, unless otherwise specified, butrather should be considered broadly within its scope as defined in theappended claims, and therefore all changes and modifications that fallwithin the metes and bounds of the claims, or equivalents of such metesand bounds, are therefore intended to be embraced by the appendedclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A head mounted display (HMD) device comprising: adisplay configured to display an image; a communication processorconfigured to communicate with a massage chair for performing a massage;and a controller configured to: receive massage information from themassage chair about the massage, and display an image on the displaycorresponding to the massage based on the received massage information.2. The HMD device according to claim 1, wherein the received massageinformation includes at least one of information about a massage part ofa user receiving the massage, information about a massage mode,synchronization information about a press and release of the massage, orhealth information of the user.
 3. The HMD device according to claim 2,wherein the displayed image illustrates the massage part of the userbeing massaged.
 4. The HMD device according to claim 2, wherein thecontroller is further configured to display the image as illustratingthe massage part being pressed when the massage chair presses themassage part, and illustrating the pressing of the massage part beingreleased when the massage chair releases the pressing of the massagepart, based on the synchronization information about the press and therelease of the massage.
 5. The HMD device according to claim 2, whereinthe displayed image illustrates a type of the massage mode, based on theinformation about the massage mode.
 6. The HMD device according to claim2, wherein the controller is further configured to: display a body imageon the display, display health information on the display indicating ahealth degree of the user together with the body image based on thehealth information, and display changed health degree informationindicating a changed health degree when the health degree is changed asthe massage progresses.
 7. The HMD device according to claim 6, whereinthe controller is further configured to: display a massage part imagerepresenting the massage part of the user having a lowest health degreeamong a plurality of massage parts of the user being massaged based onthe health information, display the health information indicating thehealth degree of the first massage part together with the displayedmassage part image, and display the changed health degree informationindicating the changed health degree of the first massage part when thehealth degree of the first massage part is changed as the massageprogresses.
 8. The HMD device according to claim 1, wherein thecontroller is further configured to display a body image showing that aplurality of muscles of the user are relaxed.
 9. The HMD deviceaccording to claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured todisplay each of the plurality of muscles in a color corresponding to amuscle relax degree for each of the plurality of muscles.
 10. The HMDdevice according to claim 2, wherein the controller is furtherconfigured to display a background screen corresponding to the massagemode together with the image corresponding to the massage.
 11. An imagedisplay system comprising: a massage chair configured to perform amassage; and a head mounted display (HMD) configured to: receive massageinformation from the massage chair about the massage, and display animage on a display of the HMD corresponding to the massage based on thereceived massage information.
 12. The image display system according toclaim 11, wherein the received massage information includes at least oneof information about a massage part of a user receiving the massage,information about a massage mode, synchronization information about apress and release of the massage, or health information of the user. 13.The image display system according to claim 12, wherein the displayedimage illustrates the massage part of the user being massaged.
 14. Theimage display system according to claim 13, wherein the HMD devicedisplays the image as illustrating the massage part being pressed whenthe massage chair presses the massage part, and illustrating thepressing of the massage part being released when the massage chairreleases the pressing of the massage part, based on the synchronizationinformation about the press and the release of the massage.
 15. Theimage display system according to claim 12, wherein the displayed imageillustrates a type the massage mode, based on the information about themassage mode.
 16. The image display system according to claim 12,wherein the HMD device: displays a massage part image representing themassage part of the user having a lowest health degree among a pluralityof massage parts of the user being massaged based on the healthinformation, displays the health information indicating the healthdegree of the first massage part together with the displayed massagepart image, and displays the changed health degree informationindicating the changed health degree of the first massage part when thehealth degree of the first massage part is changed as the massageprogresses.
 17. The image display system according to claim 16, whereinthe HMD device: displays a massage part image representing the massagepart of the user having a lowest health degree among a plurality ofmassage parts of the user being massaged based on the healthinformation, displays the health information indicating the healthdegree of the first massage part together with the displayed massagepart image, and displays the changed health degree informationindicating the changed health degree of the first massage part when thehealth degree of the first massage part is changed as the massageprogresses.
 18. The image display system according to claim 11, whereinthe HMD device displays a body image showing that a plurality of musclesof the user are relaxed.
 19. The image display system according to claim18, wherein the HMD device displays each of the plurality of muscles ina color corresponding to a muscle relax degree for each of the pluralityof muscles.
 20. A head mounted display (HMD) device comprising: adisplay configured to display an image; a communication processorconfigured to communicate with a massage chair; and a controllerconfigured to: receive synchronization information from the massagechair about a press and release of massagers included in the he massagechair, display a first image when the massage chair presses at least onemassage part of a user receiving a massage among a plurality of massageparts, and display a second image when the pressing of the at least onemassage part is released.